As I reflect on my experiences during my time in the Pekin Professional Development School, I realize how valuable and insightful this experience was for my development as an educator.  My actual experiences outweighed my expectations. 

The wonderful mentors that I was assigned to took me under their wings and assisted with my progress as a teacher.  Their pedagogical approach and dedication to their profession was contagious.  I had the unique opportunity to start the year in the classroom, which gave me the opportunity to fully understand my diverse students.  Also, I was able to identify the proper procedures needed to maintain the classroom management skills that are crucial for student learning.

Finally, I must give credit to where it is due most.  My family has been so supportive and I would not have been able to achieve my goals without the support of my wife.  She has worked so hard to keep our family strong and stable and I could not ask for a better partner.